Chicago White Sox land workhorse starter James Shields in trade from Padres
The Chicago White Sox haven't played like a contending team the past month, but they still consider themselves to be playoff worthy following a 23-10 start.
That's why, on Saturday, they acquired starting pitcher James Shields in a trade from the San Diego Padres.
The Sox sent two minor leaguers — Class AAA Charlotte starter Erik Johnson and shortstop Fernando Tatis Jr. — to the Padres.
Shields was 2-7 with a 4.28 ERA for San Diego this year, but the 34-year-old right-hander is a career 129-104 with a 3.76 ERA over 11 seasons with Tampa Bay, Kansas City and San Diego.
“We're pleased to add a starter of James Shields' caliber to our starting rotation,” White Sox general manager Rick Hahn said. “We believe this move makes the entire pitching staff stronger, and the club certainly benefits from his addition in terms of pitching depth and quality.
“He has proven to be one of the most dependable and durable pitchers in the major leagues over his career.”
Owed $58 million on a contract that runs through 2018, the Sox are reportedly going to pay Shields $27 million over the next three years. He does have an opt out after this season, but is not expected to use it and forfeit his future salaries.
Since 2007, Shields leads all major-league pitchers in games started (308) and innings pitched (2,055⅓)
He also has a streak of nine straight seasons with 200 or more innings pitched, the longest in the majors.
Shields' ability to pitch deep into games can only help a White Sox bullpen that has struggled since May 1.
It remains to be seen how Shields fits into the Sox's rotation. He could pitch between left-handers Chris Sale and Jose Quintana or slot in as the No. 3 starter.
The White Sox also have Mat Latos and Miguel Gonzalez in the rotation, so one of them is likely going to be moved out.
In 11 career starts at U.S. Cellular Field, Shields is 4-1 with a 3.00 ERA.
Johnson made 2 starts for the White Sox this season and was 0-2 with a 6.94 ERA. He was 2-1 with a 2.94 ERA in 8 starts with Charlotte.
Tatis Jr., the 17-year-old son of former major-league third baseman Fernando Tatis, signed as an international free agent last July.